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Reclaimed Wood Structure With Seamless Glass Facade Nestled In Mountain Landscape

Author:
Shivang Jani
Reclaimed Wood Structure With Seamless Glass Facade Nestled In Mountain Landscape

Project in-detail

With a louvered facade made from reclaimed wood and large seamless glass panels offering panoramic views, the design creates a seamless interplay between indoor and outdoor living in a compact mountain retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed wood louvered facade enhances solar shading while adding texture.
02
Seamless glass panels provide unobstructed views and natural light throughout.
03
A gravity-fed water cistern system ensures independent water access.
04
The design incorporates a multifunctional outdoor fireplace that supports wind turbines.
05
Murphy bed optimizes living space in the compact interior layout.

The Micro Cabin in North Carolina is a compact architectural design that effectively combines modern aesthetics with sustainability. As a thoughtfully conceived dwelling situated in a mountainous region, this project demonstrates the potential for efficiency in both space and resource utilization. It serves not only as a residential unit but also as a model for eco-friendly architecture that promotes a harmonious relationship with the natural environment.

The Micro Cabin embodies a minimalist approach to living. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces emphasizes occupants' connection to the surrounding landscape while ensuring functionality and comfort within a limited area. This project highlights the importance of thoughtful design and material selection in creating a sustainable built environment.

Sustainable Features and Materiality

One of the defining characteristics of the Micro Cabin is its innovative use of materials. The structure prominently features reclaimed wood, which adds warmth to the interior while minimizing environmental impact. The seamless glass facade is designed to maximize natural light, providing unobstructed views of the forested surroundings. This strategic use of glass harmonizes the interior environment with the exterior landscape, fostering a sense of openness.

Additional materials include steel for structural integrity and concrete for foundational support. The cabin's elevated design, supported by concrete, facilitates drainage and protects against moisture intrusion, a critical consideration in a mountainous region. These material choices together create a durable and low-maintenance home which is crucial for sustainability.

Unique Design Aspects

The Micro Cabin distinguishes itself through several innovative design elements. The outdoor fireplace serves a dual purpose: as a heating element and as a platform for wind turbines, reinforcing the project’s commitment to renewable energy. This integration allows the cabin to generate its electricity, exemplifying a self-sufficient lifestyle.

The inclusion of a Murphy bed optimizes space, transforming the living area as needed and underscoring intelligent design principles tailored for compact living. The louvered facade not only provides essential shading but also contributes to the cabin's aesthetic appeal, creating dynamic interactions between light and shadow throughout the day.

Incorporating a helicopter pad showcases versatility, allowing for potential emergency access or recreational use. Additionally, a gravity-fed water cistern system enhances self-sufficiency, ensuring reliable water access without relying on external sources.

Call to Action

For those interested in exploring architectural plans, sections, and designs that define this Micro Cabin project, please delve into the presentation for in-depth insights into its innovative architectural ideas and approaches. This project serves as a valuable case study for contemporary architecture focused on sustainability and efficient design in harmonizing with nature.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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